The Bridge
The Link Between Language and Vision
UD Prof. Alon Hafri studies the connection between language and visual perception
Seeing and speaking are two of the most complex processes happening in the human mind. Through his research, UD’s Alon Hafri seeks to understand how they work and how those two systems share information.
« The Link Between Language and Vision
Newswise — For a translator to turn one language (say, English) into another (say, Greek), she has to be able to understand both languages and what common meanings they point to, because English is not very similar to Greek.
It turns out that a similar task must be carried out within our own minds when translating visual information into linguistic information — a task Alon Hafri, an assistant professor in the Department of Linguistics and Cognitive Science at the University of Delaware and director of the Perception and Language (PAL) Lab, is trying to better understand. His research is on the connection between language and visual perception, or, in other words, between what we say and what we see.
Understanding these two activities — seeing and speaking — may at first seem trivial, Hafri said. Indeed, we’re so good at these things that we do them without thinking. But seeing and speaking are some of the most complex processes that the human mind carries out. Hafri’s goal is to understand how they work and how those two systems share information.
Hafri gives a seemingly simple example: a cat on a mat. If we saw a cat on a mat, we’d have no problem describing the scene. Or if someone said, “Look, a cat on a mat,” we’d easily be able to identify it out in the world. Yet at first glance, an image of a cat on a mat and the sentence “a cat on a mat” have nothing in common: the image has colors, edges, shapes and locations, while the sentence has sounds, words, phrases and such.
“If you think about the problem that the mind has to solve when you’re going from a visual scene to a sentence that you produce about it, there’s nothing in common really between words in a certain order and a visual image,” Hafri said. “The kind of information that they start with is very different. Something I’m really interested in is how visual information gets translated — sort of like an English-to-Greek translator would do — into a format that language can use, such that we can talk about what we see. And vice versa, so that we can recognize the things people are talking about in the world. The kind of questions I ask are, well, how does that happen? What is the translation process?”
In a recent project, Hafri asked research participants whether the notion of symmetry exists not only in vision (such as in a butterfly’s wings), but also in language. He uses tasks that force people to make judgments of how a linguistic and a visual stimulus relate, presenting images of shapes that are symmetric and non-symmetric and asking people to choose from a set of words the one that best describes them. Hafri gives the words “marry” and “adopt” as examples. “Marry” has notions of symmetry as a part of its meaning (if Bill marries John, then John marries Bill), while “adopt” does not (if Bill adopts John, John doesn’t necessarily adopt Bill).
Despite the fact that most participants said they felt they were picking images and shapes at random, Hafri found that people were quite sensitive to the connection between visual symmetry and language for symmetry, such that they associated symmetrical images with words that have symmetrical meaning. (You can try out the tasks for yourself here.)
“There seems to be some deep way in which symmetry in vision and symmetry and language are connected,” Hafri said. “I think it’s because there’s some internal language or internal code — you can think of it almost like your mental computer code — that has this property of symmetry that both language and vision link to. So when you see a visual image or an event that’s symmetrical, it somehow gives rise to this abstract mental representation of symmetry — this internal language of symmetry.”
Hafri’s research will help cognitive scientists to better understand the internal code — or internal language — of the human mind.
“Language can be studied on its own, but at some level, it has to connect to other areas of the mind,” Hafri said. “For [vision and language] to connect, it has to happen through some internal code, because a visual image and words and sentences are just so different, in so many ways. For that reason, if you can find the points at which they make contact, you can get a sense of what that internal language or that internal code is like in a way that you couldn’t otherwise.”
Source: University of Delaware
Blog
Metrolink’s SCORE Program: A Path Towards a Sustainable Future for Southern California’s Rail System
Metrolink’s SCORE program: $10 billion initiative to improve SoCal’s rail system for 2028 Olympics with zero-emissions focus. Enhancing safety and connectivity.
Metrolink’s SCORE program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to revolutionize Southern California’s rail system in preparation for the highly anticipated 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. With a staggering budget of $10 billion, this ambitious program encompasses a wide range of upgrades, including enhancements to grade crossings, stations, signals, tracks, and other essential components.
Accelerating Towards a Zero-Emissions Future:
One of the paramount goals of the SCORE program is to expedite progress towards Metrolink’s vision of a zero-emissions future. As the population of Southern California continues to soar, it is crucial to bolster transportation infrastructure to meet the rising demand while concurrently reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As a consequence of these improvements, certain cities will become eligible to apply for quiet zones, further enhancing residents’ quality of life.
Construction Projects and Safety Enhancement:
Scheduled to commence in 2023, the construction projects under the SCORE program aim to complete all improvements prior to the commencement of the 2028 Olympic Games. Safety enhancements are at the forefront of this endeavor, ensuring that commuters and travelers can rely on a safer and more efficient rail system. Additionally, both peak and off-peak rail services will be expanded, granting improved access to job centers and affordable housing, subsequently fostering economic development and providing enhanced opportunities for individuals across the region.
Connectivity and Economic Growth:
An exceptional advantage offered by the SCORE program is the elevated connectivity it will afford other rail providers. Seamlessly integrating with different modes of transportation will enhance the overall travel experience, allowing commuters to effortlessly reach their intended destinations. This heightened connectivity will not only facilitate economic growth but also generate employment prospects and attract further investment to the area, promoting regional prosperity.
Promoting a Healthier Environment:
The SCORE program not only concentrates on transportation improvements but also actively contributes to creating a healthier environment. By transitioning towards zero-emission technology, emissions will be significantly reduced, leading to cleaner air for all Southern California residents. This eco-conscious approach will have long-term benefits for the region’s overall well-being and quality of life.
Assessing the Impact:
The Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) conducted a thorough study to evaluate the impact of the SCORE program. The findings indicate that the construction investments associated with the program will enhance the region’s appeal to millions of visitors expected for the 2028 Olympics while creating sustained prosperity for years beyond the Games.
Specific Projects and Their Objectives:
The SCORE program encompasses several significant projects tailored to address specific needs and improve the efficiency and safety of Metrolink’s rail system. Noteworthy projects include the Simi Valley Double Track, Burbank Junction Speed Improvements, Chatsworth Station Improvements, Marengo Siding Extension Project, El Monte Siding Extension Project, Rancho Cucamonga Siding Extension Project, and Serra Siding Extension Project.
The SCORE program represents an indispensable stride towards revamping Southern California’s rail infrastructure to cater to the region’s burgeoning population and ambitious sustainability goals. Through safety enhancements, increased services, improved connectivity, and the generation of economic opportunities, the program will not only benefit commuters but also contribute to a brighter and healthier future for all residents. As the countdown to 2028 commences, the SCORE program sets the stage for an exceptional rail system that will endure as a legacy long after the Games conclude.
https://metrolinktrains.com/score
https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism
About Metrolink
Metrolink (reporting mark SCAX) is a commuter rail system in Southern California, serving Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties, as well as to Oceanside in San Diego County.[8][9] The system consists of eight lines and 69 stations operating on 545.6 miles (878.1 km) of track.[7] Arrow is operated under a contract with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA).[6]
In 2023, the system had a ridership of 4,861,000, or about 17,100 per weekday as of the fourth quarter of 2023.
Metrolink connects with Los Angeles County’s Metro Rail and Metro Busway systems, San Diego County’s Coaster commuter rail and Sprinter hybrid rail services, and with Amtrak‘s Pacific Surfliner, Coast Starlight, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, and Texas Eagle inter-city rail services.[10] Metrolink owns several hundred miles of track; however, it also shares track with freight railroads.
The system, founded in 1991 as the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) and adopting “Metrolink” as its moniker,[11] started operation in 1992. Average weekday ridership was 42,928 as of 2017.[12] It is operated by Amtrak under contract with the SCRRA. (Wikipedia)
art, culture and humanities
Stonewall National Museum & Archives Photography Exhibit Featuring Laverne Cox at The City College of New York
Don’t miss the groundbreaking Stonewall National Museum & Archives Photography Exhibit with Laverne Cox at The City College of New York.
In a groundbreaking move, the Stonewall National Museum & Archives Photography Exhibit, titled “Standing on the Shoulders of Heroes,” is set to arrive at The City College of New York from April 29th to May 7th. This exhibition will showcase the rich history and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community, with a special focus on renowned LGBTQ+ activist and actress, Laverne Cox.
The highlight of the event is the panel featuring the remarkable Laverne Cox, who has been a trailblazer and advocate for the transgender community. Cox’s addition to the exhibit solidifies her status as a hero and role model for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. She gained widespread recognition for her groundbreaking role in the Netflix series “Orange Is the New Black,” and made history as the first transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category.
The evening of May 7th promises to be one of enlightenment and empowerment. It will commence with the screening of the short film “There are Things to Do” by documentary filmmaker Mike Syers. This film tells the inspiring story of Urvashi Vaid, an Indian-born American LGBTQ+ activist, writer, and author. Through her work, Vaid has played a crucial role in advocating for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Following the screening, a discussion will take place with both the filmmaker and Laverne Cox, adding even more depth to the event.
The event also aims to pay tribute to LGBTQ+ advocacy within the City College community. CCNY student Shantal Rodriguez and CCNY alum Blaze Levario will be honored with the Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership Urvashi Vaid Award for LGBTQ+ Advocacy. These two individuals have made a significant impact on campus, fostering inclusivity and promoting acceptance among their peers.
The executive director of the Stonewall National Museum & Archives, Robert Kesten, and the Richard J. Henley and Susan L. Davis Dean of CCNY’s Colin Powell School, Andrew Rich, will deliver special remarks, emphasizing the importance of the exhibition and event. Their presence highlights the significance of this monumental event in promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
The exhibit will be displayed at Shepard Hall’s Lincoln Corridor, providing an opportunity for students and community members to immerse themselves in the rich history and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. Those interested in viewing the exhibit can get more information by emailing events@ccny.cuny.edu.
This monumental event is co-sponsored by The City College of New York, CCNY’s LGBTQ+ Student Center, the Stonewall National Museum Archives & Library, The Foundation for City College, the Office of Institutional Advancement, Communications & External Relations, and the Colin Powell School. These organizations collaborate to demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity and fostering an environment of acceptance for all.
The “Standing on the Shoulders of Heroes” exhibit, featuring Laverne Cox and the remarkable individuals involved, is an extraordinary opportunity for the community to celebrate and honor the strides made by the LGBTQ+ community. It is a showcase of heroes past and present, highlighting the importance of standing up, speaking out, and continuing the fight for a more inclusive and accepting society.
About The City College of New York
Since 1847, The City College of New York has provided a high-quality and affordable education to generations of New Yorkers in a wide variety of disciplines. CCNY embraces its position at the forefront of social change. It is ranked #1 by the Harvard-based Opportunity Insights out of 369 selective public colleges in the United States on the overall mobility index. This measure reflects both access and outcomes, representing the likelihood that a student at CCNY can move up two or more income quintiles. Education research organization Degree Choices ranks CCNY #1 nationally among universities for economic return on investment. In addition, the Center for World University Rankings places CCNY in the top 1.8% of universities worldwide in terms of academic excellence. Labor analytics firm Emsi (now Lightcast) puts at $1.9 billion CCNY’s annual economic impact on the regional economy (5 boroughs and 5 adjacent counties) and quantifies the “for dollar” return on investment to students, taxpayers and society. At City College, more than 15,000 students pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in eight schools and divisions, driven by significant funded research, creativity and scholarship. This year, CCNY launched its most expansive fundraising campaign, ever. The campaign, titled “Doing Remarkable Things Together” seeks to bring the College’s Foundation to more than $1 billion in total assets in support of the College mission. CCNY is as diverse, dynamic and visionary as New York City itself. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stonewall-museum-exhibit-standing-on-the-shoulders-of-heroes-comes-to-ccny-lgbtq-activist-laverne-cox-features-on-may-7-302127974.html
Community
McCain Foods Delivers on Promise by Planting 18,000 Trees in Wisconsin
McCain Foods fulfills promise, planting 18,000 trees in Wisconsin, beautifying Plover and promoting sustainability. A true commitment to the environment and community. #McCainFoods #Sustainability
In a heartwarming display of commitment to the environment and the Plover community, McCain Foods has fulfilled its promise by planting 18,000 trees throughout Wisconsin. This inspiring initiative was part of the company’s pledge to replace and increase the number of trees cut down for the expansion of their appetizer processing plant in Plover.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony:
Celebrating this remarkable achievement, McCain hosted a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in Plover last Friday. Howard Snape, the president of McCain Foods North America, expressed his pride in the company’s contribution. “With this initiative, McCain has added three times the number of trees we had to clear in Plover, beautifying the community while increasing its sustainability,” Snape shared. This event not only marked a milestone for McCain but also highlighted their dedication to fostering thriving communities.
Tree Planting Locations:
The 18,000 newly planted trees can be found in various locations, including the Douglas County Forest and throughout the Plover community. This carefully planned distribution ensures that the positive impact of the initiative is widespread. Local elementary schools, homes of growers, and the residences of McCain employees have all benefited from this sustainability effort. By incorporating trees into these areas, McCain aims to enhance the overall beauty and vitality of the community.
Commitment to Rural Areas:
With a network of 3,500 farmer partners worldwide, McCain has a significant presence in rural areas, often serving as the largest employer within those communities. The company values its role in creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering community development through donations, volunteering, and similar initiatives. The tree planting project is yet another testament to McCain’s dedication to these principles.
Sustainable Mission:
Sustainability lies at the core of McCain’s mission, as the company strives to celebrate real connections through delicious, planet-friendly foods. In line with global efforts to combat climate change, McCain has committed to reducing its emissions by 50% by 2030. This ambitious goal aligns with the international push to limit the rise in global temperatures to 1.5°C.
A Greener and More Sustainable Community:
McCain Foods’ tree planting initiative showcases the company’s dedication to the environment and the communities it serves. By fulfilling their promise and planting 18,000 trees, McCain has not only beautified Plover but has also helped create a greener and more sustainable community. This initiative reflects their ethos of promoting environmental stewardship, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.
McCain Foods’ commitment to replanting and increasing the number of trees cut down for their expansion project in Plover is truly commendable. By planting 18,000 trees throughout Wisconsin, they have not only fulfilled their promise but have also made a significant positive impact on the environment and the Plover community. McCain has once again demonstrated their dedication to sustainability, showcasing their determination to make a difference for future generations.
About McCain Foods USA
McCain Foods USA is a leading supplier of frozen potato and snack food products for the foodservice markets, retail grocery chains and private label brands in restaurants and supermarket freezers across the country. McCain Foods USA Inc., headquartered in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, employs 4,000 people and operates production facilities in Idaho, Maine, Nebraska, Washington and Wisconsin. https://www.mccainusafoodservice.com/
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